ドレスコード

ドレスコード is a loanword from English "dress code," referring to rules or expectations about what clothing is appropriate for a given setting. The concept is comparatively recent in Japanese popular awareness and is most associated with international hotels, fine dining, and formal events.

Common collocations

• ドレスコードがある: there is a dress code
• ドレスコードを守(まも)る: to follow / observe the dress code
• ドレスコードに合(あ)わせる: to dress in line with the dress code
• ドレスコードに違反(いはん)する: to violate the dress code
• 厳(きび)しいドレスコード: strict dress code
• カジュアルなドレスコード: casual dress code

Common dress code labels in japan

• 平服(へいふく): "smart casual" or "informal" (often used on Japanese wedding invitations)
• ビジネスカジュアル: business casual
• スマートカジュアル: smart casual
• ブラックタイ: black tie
• フォーマル: formal

Usage

• Until recently, Japanese venues rarely advertised explicit dress codes, relying instead on social context. The English term ドレスコード has spread along with international restaurants, business gatherings, and online travel guides.
• The Japanese term 平服(へいふく) on a wedding invitation can confuse Japanese learners — it does NOT mean casual; it means the recipient does not need to wear morning coat or full traditional formalwear, but should still be in a suit or equivalent.